Modular, lightweight panels and racks for truck tailgate

ABSTRACT

A pickup full of gear doesn&#39;t have to be a jumbled mess. A modular, lightweight load-carrying system is custom engineered to fit directly onto a tailgate using the existing OEM mounting points of the vehicle. The rack systems allow drivers of the vehicle to keep gear organized, easily accessible, and secure.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This is a continuation-in-part patent application which claims priorityunder 35 U.S.C. § 120 to U.S. Ser. No. 17/390,434, filed Jul. 30, 2021,herein incorporated by reference in its entirety, including withoutlimitation, the specification, claims, and abstract, as well as anyfigures, tables, appendices, or drawings thereof.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to an apparatus and/orcorresponding method of use in at least the aftermarket, automotiveaccessories industry. More particularly, but not exclusively, thepresent invention relates to brackets and methods for installingmodular, lightweight load-carrying panels and racks on automobiles,which, for example, can allow for the more secure mounting of cargo tothe sidewall(s) of a truck bed.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The background description provided herein gives context for the presentdisclosure. Work of the presently named inventors, as well as aspects ofthe description that may not otherwise qualify as prior art at the timeof filing, are neither expressly nor impliedly admitted as prior art.

Pickups are historically well suited for towing and hauling. The cargobed can vary in size according to whether the vehicle is optimized forcargo utility or passenger comfort. Most have fixed side walls and ahinged tailgate. Cargo beds are normally found in two styles: step-sideor fleet-side. A step-side bed has fenders which extend on the outsideof the cargo area. A fleet-side bed has wheel-wells inside the bed. Theexact placement of the wheel well thus vastly vary depending on the makeand model of the pickup.

Construction and landscaping crews rely heavily on the use of pickupsfor everyday work. Pickups are the preferred vehicle because theseparation of the bed from the crew can help keep dirt and otherunwanted debris from entering the cab of the vehicle. Many of thesepickup have beds that are full of gear at all times. As a result, thepickup bed looks like a jumbled mess. This is not usually the fault ofthe crew, as crews are unfathomably busy during the summer months.

In recent history, pickups have been used as light improvised fightingvehicles in military applications. Pickups are well-suited for suchapplications because of their versality, four wheel drive, andopen-backs. The open-back in particular allows for the mounting of amachine gun, anti-aircraft gun, rotary cannon, anti-tank weapon,anti-tank gun, ATGM, mortar, multiple rocket launcher, recoilless rifleor other support weapon, somewhat like a light military gun truck orpotentially even a self-propelled gun. In such situations, the pickup iscolloquially referred to as a “technical”. In more professional terms,the pickup is referred to as a non-standard tactical vehicle (“NSTV”).

Because the United States Department of Army (“the U.S. Army”) hasderived technological advances in military applications with inspirationfrom the automobile industry, it stands to reason that the automobileindustry can advance technology by taking inspiration from militarytechnology and, for example, applying said technology to advance theconstruction and landscaping industries. One such technology that hasnot be thoroughly explored is modular lightweight load-carryingequipment (“MOLLE”) technology, first patented by the U.S. Army by wayof U.S. Pat. No. 5,724,707. Such technology entered the public domain in2016 and is thus ripe for improvement by private industry.

Modular (“MOLLE”) is an item that replaced the aging all-purpose,lightweight, individual carrying equipment (“ALICE”) pack. United StatesMarines report the modular load carriage system is more comfortable anddurable. Specifically, MOLLE technology improved over ALICE by includinga more robust frame. Instead of the tubular aluminum used with theALICE, a new anatomically-contoured frame made with plastic originallyused in automobile bumpers has dramatically increased durability,functioning in temperatures ranging from negative forty (−40) to onehundred twenty (120) degrees Fahrenheit (° F.). ALICE frames were knownto break in airborne operations. This is because ALICE frames were knownto crack after a single drop at thirty three feet per second (33 ft/s).MOLLE frames are capable of withstanding the same abuse fivefold withouttaking any damage.

Components of the MOLLE system developed by the United States Army aredescribed as follows.

MOLLE advanced load-carrying abilities by introducing a new suspensionsystem. Heavily-padded shoulder straps and a waist belt are adjustablefor varying torso lengths, eliminating the two sizes of ALICE. The U.S.Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, located at Natick,assisted with biomechanical studies to find the most efficient way tocarry loads and investigated the interaction between differentload-carriage equipment and human performance. More weight isdistributed at the shoulders and hips, and during a prolonged roadmarch, soldiers can shift the weight to where it feels more comfortable.

The fighting load carrier (“FLC”) of MOLLE replaced the load bearingequipment (“LBE”) web belt and suspenders of ALICE, which betterdistributed weight across soldiers' torsos and significantly increasedthe amount of ammunition soldiers could carry. The MOLLE vest has nometal clips or hooks that can be awkward and dig into the skin, and hasan H-harness in back to minimize heat buildup. The MOLLE vest isadjustable to all sizes, and because the vest sits high, soldiers canfasten the MOLLE frame waist belt underneath the FLC to distribute someof the load to the hips. Three flap pockets on the FLC each hold two30-round magazines, two grenade pockets, and two canteen pouches.

The tactical assault panel (“TAP”) later replaced the FLC The TAP is abib-like chest rig that can be used alone or mounted on the improvedouter tactical vest or solider plate carrier system. The TAP is coveredwith pouch attachment ladder system (“PALS”) webbing and storage for upto eight rifle magazines (six 5.56 magazines+two 7.62 North AtlanticTreaty Organization (“NATO”) magazines or eight 5.56 magazines).

Based on user feedback on the original system, the MOLLE requirementswere modified to eliminate the need for a quick-release frame thatintegrates into the load-bearing vest. Spare buckles come with eachMOLLE and are simple to replace. The U.S. Army MOLLE also includes arucksack with a front pocket to hold a claymore antipersonnel mine. Arucksack having two thousand cubic inches (2000 in³) is referred to asan assault pack; a rucksack having three thousand cubic inches (3000in³) is referred to as a medium rucksack, is designed to be worn overbody armor, supports loads up to sixty pounds (60 lbs), and features alarge main compartment with internal dividers for items like thehydration system, 60 mm mortar rounds, along with a harness for ASIPradios; and a rucksack having four thousand cubic inches (4000 in³)features a large main compartment with an internal divider between theupper and lower half for organizing loads, and includes some ALICEtechnology on the side to support legacy items such as the 2 quartcanteen pouch. It is highly adjustable for comfort and loaddistribution. Two smaller compartments are located outside the maincompartment. All packs are adorned in PALS webbing. Pouches of variousutility that can be attached wherever PALS webbing exists. One type is asustainment pouch. Other types of MOLLE pouches are commonly used tocarry ammunition, gas masks, batons, flares, grenades, handcuffs andpepper spray, and custom pouches can include PALS-compatible pistolholders, hydration pouches and utility pouches. These pouches arenormally secured through the use of straps, ALICE clips or speed clips.Inside the rucksack is a bandolier with a capacity for six (6) thirty(30) round magazines and a removable tactical radio pocket. A detachablesustainment pouch on each side is big enough to hold a ready to eat mealwith room to spare. Underneath the rucksack, a sleeping bag compartmentwas designed to hold the Army's modular sleeping bag. Every U.S. ArmyMOLLE comes with a tube-delivered water pouch for on-the-move hydrationto supplement the one-quart canteen.

All of the larger pouches of MOLLE, such as the outside rucksackpouches, have D-rings for carrying with a sling and use plasticsee-through identification windows so soldiers don't have to marker ortape their name onto the MOLLE's camouflaged, urethane-coated nylonfabric. Each system comes with two 6-foot lashing straps for carryinglarge objects, such as a mortar plate or five-gallon containers. If oneof the plastic buckles breaks, a repair kit carries a bag of spares forsimple replacement.

The nylon mesh vest has removable pockets to accommodate differentcarrying needs and is one of the main components of the MOLLE system.Rifleman, grenadier, pistol, squad assault weapon gunner, and medicconfigurations of the fighting load carrier are examples of theversatility of the MOLLE.

Thus, there exists a need to advance the state of the art byimplementing a secure, lightweight modular rack capable of carryingloads caused by cargo and other equipment for automobile applications,similar to how the military advanced the state of the art with respectto how soldiers carry gear on foot.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The following objects, features, advantages, aspects, and/orembodiments, are not exhaustive and do not limit the overall disclosure.No single embodiment need provide each and every object, feature, oradvantage. Any of the objects, features, advantages, aspects, and/orembodiments disclosed herein can be integrated with one another, eitherin full or in part.

It is a primary object, feature, and/or advantage of the presentinvention to improve on or overcome the deficiencies in the art.

It is a further object, feature, and/or advantage of the presentinvention to provide custom engineered rack systems that fit directly toeach make and model using existing OEM mounting points in the bed.

It is still yet a further object, feature, and/or advantage of thepresent invention to organize, easily access, and secure gear.

It is still yet a further object, feature, and/or advantage of thepresent invention to utilize said modular lightweight racks with (1)other like modular lightweight racks, (2) other PALS components, (3)universal vehicle mounts for rifles and shotguns, and/or (4) other gearstrapping systems to hold cargo in place on the roughest roads.

The modular, lightweight load-carrying panels and racks disclosed hereincan be used in a wide variety of applications. For example, the modular,lightweight load-carrying panels and racks can be used for securetransportation, tactical applications, and/or to enhance the functionalcapabilities of the sidewall(s) of the truck bed.

It is preferred the apparatus be safe, cost effective, and durable. Forexample, the modular, lightweight load-carrying panels and racks can beadapted to resist thermal transfer and electric conductivity.Furthermore, the modular, lightweight load-carrying panels and racks canbe adapted so as to more easily prevent failure (e.g., cracking,crumbling, shearing, creeping) due to being exposed to excessive and/orprolonged forces (e.g., tensile, compressive, and/or balanced forces).

At least one embodiment disclosed herein comprises a distinct aestheticappearance. Ornamental aspects included in such an embodiment can helpcapture a consumer's attention and/or identify a source of origin of aproduct being sold. Said ornamental aspects will not impedefunctionality of the present invention. Ornamental aspects of theembodiments provided herein can be specifically selected such that theybest complement the make, model, year, and/or color of the vehicle. Suchmakes and models can, in non-limiting examples, comprise: JeepGladiator, Toyota Tacoma, Toyota Tundra, Ford Ranger, Ford F-150, FordSuper Duty, Nissan Frontier, Nissan Titan, Chevrolet Colorado, ChevroletSilverado Light Duty (“LD”), Chevrolet Silverado Heavy Duty (“HD”),Dodge Ram LD, and Dodge Ram HD.

Methods can be practiced which facilitate use, manufacture, assembly,maintenance, and repair of the modular, lightweight load-carrying panelsand racks which accomplish some or all of the previously statedobjectives.

The modular, lightweight load-carrying panels and racks described hereincan be incorporated into systems or kits which accomplish some or all ofthe previously stated objectives.

According to some aspects of the present disclosure, an interlockingattaching system for removably securing cargo to sidewalls of a truckbed of a pickup truck, said system comprises panels comprising a PALSgrid, said panels including at least a front panel, driver-side panel,and passenger-side panel, a plurality of mounting brackets that securesaid panels to existing mount points within the sidewalls of the truckbed, and fasteners for interlocking said cargo to the PALS grid of saidpanels, said fasteners including at least one strap and at least oneclamp.

According to some additional aspects of the present disclosure, thefasteners further comprise at least one bracket or nylon ties.

According to some additional aspects of the present disclosure, at leasta portion of a bottom edge of the driver-side panel or thepassenger-side panel comprises a spline that corresponds to an upperedge of a wheel well of the truck.

According to some additional aspects of the present disclosure, thepanels are coated with spray-on bed liners.

According to some additional aspects of the present disclosure, thefront panel is symmetric about a vertical axis separating thedriver-side and the passenger-side of the vehicle.

According to some additional aspects of the present disclosure, thepanels provide clearance for factory tie downs and access to bedsideoutlets and lighting.

According to some additional aspects of the present disclosure, thepanels include one or more cutouts in the panel that (1) avoid existingprotrusions or obstructions in the sidewall of the truck bed or (2)permit access to electrical outlets or a wiring harness of the pickuptruck.

According to some additional aspects of the present disclosure, thedriver-side panel or the passenger-side panel comprises a duality ofseparate panels.

According to some additional aspects of the present disclosure, thepanels comprise heavy gauge 1/10 inch thick 6000 series aluminum.

According to some additional aspects of the present disclosure, thepanels are rated to carry a total weight of said cargo weighting atleast two hundred pounds.

According to some additional aspects of the present disclosure, thepanels are adapted to withstand temperatures between negative fortydegrees and one hundred twenty degrees Fahrenheit.

According to some additional aspects of the present disclosure, thecargo is selected from the group consisting of weaponry, a sparebattery, a tank for holding liquids, machinery, tools, equipment forconstruction or landscaping, and medical gear.

According to some additional aspects of the present disclosure, the atleast one strap and the at least one clamp are made from a flexible,UV-resistant rubber.

According to some other aspects of the present disclosure, a method ofusing the interlocking attaching system comprises mounting the pluralityof mounting brackets to the existing mount points; attaching the panelsto said mounting brackets; and fastening cargo with the fasteners tosaid panels.

According to some additional aspects of the present disclosure, themethod is free from drilling or cutting.

According to some additional aspects of the present disclosure, themethod further comprises removing covers to access said existing mountpoints.

According to some additional aspects of the present disclosure, mountingsaid mounting brackets is accomplished by assembling the mountingbrackets with a bolt, a washer, and a nut plate in succession, anglingthe nut plate such that the nut plate is behind an outer surface of thesidewalls, and tightening the bolt until the mounting plate is securedin place.

According to some additional aspects of the present disclosure, themethod further comprises locating the at least one strap and the atleast one clamp at desirable locations on the PALS grid.

According to some other aspects of the present disclosure, a method ofmanufacturing the interlocking attaching system of claim 1 comprisingcustomizing the panels to a make and model of the pickup truck.

These and/or other objects, features, advantages, aspects, and/orembodiments will become apparent to those skilled in the art afterreviewing the following brief and detailed descriptions of the drawings.Furthermore, the present disclosure encompasses aspects and/orembodiments not expressly disclosed but which can be understood from areading of the present disclosure, including at least: (a) combinationsof disclosed aspects and/or embodiments and/or (b) reasonablemodifications not shown or described.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Several embodiments in which the present invention can be practiced areillustrated and described in detail, wherein like reference charactersrepresent like components throughout the several views. The drawings arepresented for exemplary purposes and may not be to scale unlessotherwise indicated.

FIG. 1 shows an environmental perspective view of a modular, lightweightload-carrying panel system.

FIGS. 2A-2F demonstrates a step-by-step method for installing bracketsused to mount the modular, lightweight load-carrying panel system ofFIG. 1 and use of same. More particularly, FIG. 2A illustrates a truckbed without any brackets or panels installed; FIG. 2B illustratesbrackets installed in the truck bed; FIG. 2C illustrates brackets andpanels installed in the truck bed; and FIG. 2D illustrates brackets andpanels installed in the truck bed with cargo mounted thereto. FIG. 2Eand FIG. 2F detail mounting the brackets to the truck bed.

FIGS. 3A-3D show various accessories that can be used with modular,lightweight load-carrying panels of FIG. 1 . More particularly, FIG. 3Aillustrates a first embodiment of a one-piece rubber clamp. FIG. 3Billustrates a second embodiment of a one-piece rubber clamp. FIG. 3Cillustrates a third embodiment of a one-piece rubber clamp. FIG. 3Dillustrates a fourth embodiment of a one-piece rubber clamp.

FIGS. 4A-4G exemplify one embodiment of the modular, lightweightload-carrying panel system, said embodiment being specifically designedfor a Jeep Gladiator. More particularly, FIG. 4A shows a driver-sideperspective view of the system; FIG. 4B show a rear perspective view ofthe system; FIG. 4C shows a perspective view of each of the panelswithin the system; FIG. 4D shows a detailed view of a front panel withinthe system; FIG. 4E shows a detailed view of a driver-side panel withinthe system; FIG. 4F shows a detailed view of a passenger-side panelwithin the system; and FIG. 4G shows a component view of the bracketswithin the system.

FIGS. 5A-5G exemplify one embodiment of the modular, lightweightload-carrying panel system, said embodiment being specifically designedfor a Toyota Tacoma. More particularly, FIG. 5A shows a driver-sideperspective view of the system; FIG. 5B show a rear perspective view ofthe system; FIG. 5C shows a perspective view of each of the panelswithin the system; FIG. 5D shows a detailed view of a front panel withinthe system; FIG. 5E shows a detailed view of a driver-side panel withinthe system; FIG. 5F shows a detailed view of a passenger-side panelwithin the system; and FIG. 5G shows a component view of the bracketswithin the system.

FIGS. 6A-6G exemplify one embodiment of the modular, lightweightload-carrying panel system, said embodiment being specifically designedfor a Ford Ranger. More particularly, FIG. 6A shows a driver-sideperspective view of the system; FIG. 6B show a rear perspective view ofthe system; FIG. 6C shows a perspective view of each of the panelswithin the system; FIG. 6D shows a detailed view of a front panel withinthe system; FIG. 6E shows a detailed view of a driver-side panel withinthe system; FIG. 6F shows a detailed view of a passenger-side panelwithin the system; and FIG. 6G shows a component view of the bracketswithin the system.

FIGS. 7A-7I exemplify one embodiment of the modular, lightweightload-carrying panel system, said embodiment being specifically designedfor a Ford Super Duty. More particularly, FIG. 7A shows a driver-sideperspective view of the system; FIG. 7B show a detailed view of cargowithin the system; FIG. 7C shows a perspective view of each of thepanels within the system; FIG. 7D shows a detailed view of a front panelwithin the system; FIG. 7E shows a detailed view of a first driver-sidepanel within the system; FIG. 7F shows a detailed view of a firstdriver-side panel within the system; FIG. 7G shows a detailed view of afirst passenger-side panel within the system; FIG. 7H shows a detailedview of a first passenger-side panel within the system; and FIG. 7Ishows a component view of the brackets within the system.

FIGS. 8A-8G exemplify one embodiment of the modular, lightweightload-carrying panel system, said embodiment being specifically designedfor a Nissan Frontier. More particularly, FIG. 8A shows a driver-sideperspective view of the system; FIG. 8B show a detailed view of cargowithin the system; FIG. 8C shows a perspective view of each of thepanels within the system; FIG. 8D shows a detailed view of a front panelwithin the system; FIG. 8E shows a detailed view of a driver-side panelwithin the system; FIG. 8F shows a detailed view of a passenger-sidepanel within the system; and FIG. 8G shows a component view of thebrackets within the system.

FIGS. 9A-9F exemplify one embodiment of the modular, lightweightload-carrying panel system, said embodiment being specifically designedfor a Nissan Titan. More particularly, FIG. 9A shows a driver-sideperspective view of the system; FIG. 9B show a driver-side perspectiveview of cargo mounted to panels within the system; FIG. 9C shows aperspective view of each of the panels within the system; FIG. 9D showsa detailed view of a front panel within the system; FIG. 9E shows adetailed view of a driver-side panel within the system; FIG. 9F shows adetailed view of a passenger-side panel within the system; and thereexists no view of the brackets within the system, as mounting bracketsare not required in this embodiment.

FIGS. 10A-10G exemplify one embodiment of the modular, lightweightload-carrying panel system, said embodiment being specifically designedfor a Chevy Colorado. More particularly, FIG. 10A shows a driver-sideperspective view of the system; FIG. 10B show a rear perspective view ofthe system; FIG. 10C shows a perspective view of each of the panelswithin the system; FIG. 10D shows a detailed view of a front panelwithin the system; FIG. 10E shows a detailed view of a driver-side panelwithin the system; FIG. 10F shows a detailed view of a passenger-sidepanel within the system; and FIG. 10G shows a component view of thebrackets within the system.

FIGS. 11A-11G exemplify one embodiment of the modular, lightweightload-carrying panel system, said embodiment being specifically designedfor a Dodge Ram LD. More particularly, FIG. 11A shows a driver-sideperspective view of the system; FIG. 11B show a rear perspective view ofthe system; FIG. 11C shows a perspective view of each of the panelswithin the system; FIG. 11D shows a detailed view of a front panelwithin the system; FIG. 11E shows a detailed view of a driver-side panelwithin the system; FIG. 11F shows a detailed view of a passenger-sidepanel within the system; and FIG. 11G shows a component view of thebrackets within the system.

FIGS. 12A-12G exemplify one embodiment of the modular, lightweightload-carrying panel system, said embodiment being specifically designedfor a Dodge Ram HD. More particularly, FIG. 12A shows a driver-sideperspective view of the system; FIG. 12B show a rear perspective view ofthe system; FIG. 12C shows a perspective view of each of the panelswithin the system; FIG. 12D shows a detailed view of a front panelwithin the system; FIG. 12E shows a detailed view of a driver-side panelwithin the system; FIG. 12F shows a detailed view of a passenger-sidepanel within the system; and FIG. 12G shows a component view of thebrackets within the system.

FIG. 13 shows an environmental perspective view of a modular,lightweight load-carrying panel system adapted to attach to a trucktailgate that rotates about a hinge in a downward direction to open andin an upward direction to close.

FIG. 14 shows an environmental perspective view of a modular,lightweight load-carrying panel system adapted to attach to a tailgateof a compact sport utility vehicle (SUV) that rotates in an outwarddirection (partially laterally and away from the vehicle) to open and inan inward direction (partially laterally and toward the vehicle) toclose. The rear windshield uses struts to help rotate the rearwindshield about a hinge in an upward direction to open (away from thevehicle) and in a downward direction (toward the vehicle) to close.

FIGS. 15A-C show a rubber-coated brass insulating well nut which canfacilitate installation of modular, lightweight load-carrying panelsystems installed on tailgates of the vehicle. In particular, FIG. 15Ashows a perspective view, FIG. 15B shows a side elevation view, and FIG.15C shows a bottom plan view of the well nut.

FIG. 16A shows a detailed view of a backing plate.

FIG. 16B shows that after removing the access panel from the tailgate ina compact sport utility vehicle such as the one shown in the system ofFIG. 14 , bolts can be inserted through the backing plate, then aspacer.

FIG. 17A shows an existing screw retainer from the tailgate which can beremoved so as to be able to install the modular, lightweightload-carrying system shown in FIG. 13 . Such removal can occur throughthe use of a flathead screwdriver.

FIG. 17B shows well nuts can be inserted into the holes where the screwretainers were, so as to replace the tailgate access panel with thelightweight load-carrying system shown in FIG. 13 .

FIG. 17C shows bolts can be inserted through the modular lightweightload-carrying panel, a washer, a spacer, the well nut of FIG. 15 , andthe tailgate of the vehicle.

FIG. 18 exemplifies one embodiment of the modular, lightweightload-carrying panel system for a tailgate, said embodiment beingspecifically designed for a Chevy Colorado/Canyon.

FIG. 19 exemplifies one embodiment of the modular, lightweightload-carrying panel system for a tailgate, said embodiment beingspecifically designed for a Chevy Silverado/Sierra (K1).

FIGS. 20A-20C exemplifies one embodiment of the modular, lightweightload-carrying panel system for a tailgate, said embodiment beingspecifically designed for a Chevy Silverado/Sierra HD-Multi-Pro. FIG.20A shows a first plate of the system,

FIG. 20B shows a second plate of the system, and FIG. 20C shows a thirdplate of the system.

FIG. 21 exemplifies one embodiment of the modular, lightweightload-carrying panel system for a tailgate, said embodiment beingspecifically designed for a Chevy Silverado/Sierra HD.

FIGS. 22A-22C exemplifies one embodiment of the modular, lightweightload-carrying panel system for a tailgate, said embodiment beingspecifically designed for a Chevy Silverado/Sierra Multi-Pro. FIG. 22Ashows a first plate of the system, FIG. 22B shows a second plate of thesystem, and FIG. 22C shows a third plate of the system.

FIG. 23 exemplifies one embodiment of the modular, lightweightload-carrying panel system for a tailgate, said embodiment beingspecifically designed for a Chevy Silverado/Sierra.

FIG. 24 exemplifies one embodiment of the modular, lightweightload-carrying panel system for a tailgate, said embodiment beingspecifically designed for a Ford Bronco.

FIGS. 25A-B exemplifies one embodiment of the modular, lightweightload-carrying panel system for a tailgate, said embodiment beingspecifically designed for a Ford F150 with a work surface. FIG. 25Ashows a first plate of the system and FIG. 25B shows a second plate ofthe system.

FIG. 26 exemplifies one embodiment of the modular, lightweightload-carrying panel system for a tailgate, said embodiment beingspecifically designed for a Ford F150.

FIG. 27 exemplifies one embodiment of the modular, lightweightload-carrying panel system for a tailgate, said embodiment beingspecifically designed for a Ford Maverick.

FIG. 28 exemplifies one embodiment of the modular, lightweightload-carrying panel system for a tailgate, said embodiment beingspecifically designed for a Ford Ranger.

FIG. 29 exemplifies one embodiment of the modular, lightweightload-carrying panel system for a tailgate, said embodiment beingspecifically designed for a Ford Super Duty.

FIG. 30 exemplifies one embodiment of the modular, lightweightload-carrying panel system for a tailgate, said embodiment beingspecifically designed for a Jeep Gladiator.

FIG. 31 exemplifies one embodiment of the modular, lightweightload-carrying panel system for a tailgate, said embodiment beingspecifically designed for a Jeep Wrangler JL.

FIG. 32 exemplifies one embodiment of the modular, lightweightload-carrying panel system for a tailgate, said embodiment beingspecifically designed for a Nissan Frontier.

FIG. 33 exemplifies one embodiment of the modular, lightweightload-carrying panel system for a tailgate, said embodiment beingspecifically designed for a Nissan Titan.

FIG. 34 exemplifies one embodiment of the modular, lightweightload-carrying panel system for a tailgate, said embodiment beingspecifically designed for a Dodge Ram 1500.

FIG. 35 exemplifies one embodiment of the modular, lightweightload-carrying panel system for a tailgate, said embodiment beingspecifically designed for a Dodge Ram HD.

FIG. 36 exemplifies one embodiment of the modular, lightweightload-carrying panel system for a tailgate, said embodiment beingspecifically designed for a Toyota Tacoma.

FIG. 37 exemplifies one embodiment of the modular, lightweightload-carrying panel system for a tailgate, said embodiment beingspecifically designed for a Toyota Tundra.

FIG. 38 exemplifies yet another embodiment of the modular, lightweightload-carrying panel system for a tailgate, said embodiment beingspecifically designed for a Toyota Tundra.

An artisan of ordinary skill in the art need not view, within isolatedfigure(s), the near infinite number of distinct permutations of featuresdescribed in the following detailed description to facilitate anunderstanding of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure is not to be limited to that described herein.Mechanical, electrical, chemical, procedural, and/or other changes canbe made without departing from the spirit and scope of the presentinvention. No features shown or described are essential to permit basicoperation of the present invention unless otherwise indicated.

Referring now to the figures, FIG. 1 shows a pickup truck 100 with a cab101 and a bed 102. The bed 102 can be a short, standard, or long bed ofany suitable make or model of pickup 100. Pickups 100 usually sit higherthan normal cars so they are often equipped with running boards or sidesteps below the doors. This can make it much easier to get in and out ofa pickup 100.

Just in front of the pickup truck bed 102, is the cabin or cab 101. Thecab 101 is the portion of the pickup 100 that carries the driver (in theUnited States, left-side) of the pickup and any passengers (in theUnited States: right-side). Pickup cabs 101 can come in single cab (onefull size row of seating), extended cab (two rows of seating, front rowis full size, back row is not full size), and crew cab (two full sizerows of seating) configurations. The cab 101 typically comprises a shelland is enclosed by a roof and side doors (anywhere from 2 to 4 doors),windows on all 4 sides, and typical vehicle interior parts. The vehicleinterior parts can include seats, a dashboard, climate controls, drivingcontrols (steering wheel, shifter, pedals, etc.), and the like.

The bed 102 of the pickup 100 typically includes a hauling surface,open-back, and/or box for hauling cargo 112. The bed 102 can be astandard pickup box, flatbed, or utility bed. The floor of the bed 102is typically flat. The floor extends from a cab end of the bed 102 to atailgate end of the bed 102 and from a passenger-side sidewall 105 tothe driver-side sidewall 105. Most pickup beds 102 have solid roundloops for tie down points in the corners to attach rope or ratchetstraps to. This allows drivers to tie down and secure some types ofcargo 112 being hauled by the pickup 100. The inside the bed 102 oftencomes from the factory with just a painted surface. When the bed getsused, this paint wears and so many beds 102 will have liner added tothem. A bed liner protects the bed from being dinged or scratched up andkeeps it looking aesthetically pleasing. Sometimes, the beds 102 willeven include lockable storage boxes or other like cargo storingequipment on one or more sides of the bed 102.

To secure the tailgate 103 to the bed 102, some mechanical attachmentexists therebetween. Additionally, a cable 104 can be employed to limittailgate travel. The tailgate cable 104 can comprise a flexible metal.Additionally, one or more latch rods can be employed near the rearbumper under the back of the pickup bed 102 to control and/or resist arate of lowering the tailgate 103. The latch rod can comprise a tailgatelock, curved bar, hydraulic strut, or the like. Latch rod(s) aretypically attached to the pickup frame or chassis near the rear end ofthe sidewalls 105, though could also be permanently attached to thetailgate 103. When the tailgate 103 is closed, latch rod(s) latch shutand can be locked to keep the bed 102 secure. The front wall next to thecab is often called a bulkhead.

The sidewalls 105 confine the space of the pickup bed 102. The top ofthe sidewalls 105 have reinforced railing known as bed rails. The bedrails can support weight to install many different accessories like caps& covers to close in the bed 102, racks for hauling larger & longeritems, and the like. The sidewalls 105 help contain the cargo 112 withinso the cargo 112 does not fall off onto the road during transport.

All pickup beds 102, regardless of the type, will contain a set of taillights 106 at the rear corners of the sidewalls 105. Each of theselights 106 will contain a brake light, turn signals or blinkers, reverselights, and tail lights that turn on when the parking lights orheadlights are turned on.

Conspicuity for the rear of a vehicle is provided by the tail lights106. These are required to produce only red light and to be wired suchthat they are lit whenever the front position lamps are lit, includingwhen the headlamps are on. Tail lights 106 may be combined with thevehicle's other stop lights and/or be separate from them. Incombined-function installations, the tail lights 106 produce brighterred light for the stop lamp function and dimmer red light for the rearposition lamp function. Regulations worldwide typically stipulateminimum intensity ratios between the bright (stop) and dim (rearposition) modes, so that a vehicle displaying rear position lamps willnot be mistakenly interpreted as showing stop lamps, and vice versa.

The bulkhead includes back glass 107. The back glass 107 also calledrear window glass, rear windshield, or rear glass, is the piece of glassopposite the windshield in the pickup 100. Back glass 106 can be madefrom tempered glass, also known as safety glass, which when broken willshatter into small, round pieces. This can be different from a frontwindshield, which is made of laminated glass, glass which consists oftwo pieces of glass, with vinyl therebetween.

There will also be a set of side view mirrors 108 attached to the frontdoors. Many pickup trucks 100 will be equipped with over-sized towingmirrors to be able to see around the wide trailers they often tow.

Cargo beds 102 are normally found in two styles: step-side orfleet-side. A step-side bed has fenders which extend on the outside ofthe cargo area. A fleet-side bed has wheel-wells 109A inside the bed102, under the wheels 109B that support the pickup 100 are located. Thewheel 109B, as a non-limiting example, can comprise an off-road tireand/or all-terrain tires. Off-road tires employ deep tread to providemore traction on unpaved surfaces such as loose dirt, mud, sand, orgravel. Compared to ice or snow tires, off-road tires lack studs butcontain deeper and wider grooves meant to help the tread sink into mudor gravel surfaces.

Many embodiments of the aftermarket, modular, lightweight panels 110 andracks are described herein. The panels 110, in connection with mountingbrackets 111, are a means through which cargo 112 can be stored,secured, and/or organized within the truck bed 102 during transport. Thecargo 112 can include weaponry, a spare battery, a tank for holdingliquids, machinery, tools, equipment for construction or landscaping,medical gear, or any other object wished to be transported by the driverand/or passengers of the pickup 100.

The panels 110, in particular are laser cut with laser optics andcomputer numerical control (“CNC cut”). The panels 110 are preferablycut from heavy gauge 1/10 inch thick 6000 series aluminum, such that thepanels 110 are lightweight and substantially rustproof. In someembodiments, the panels 110 are designed to carry a maximum distributedload of 200 lbs, and are thus not meant to be used as a tie down pointfor objects having greater weight than this. During use, the panels 110are recessed completely from a top edge of the sidewalls 105, and arethus compatible with bed cover. Moreover, the panels 110 typicallyinclude a black mini-texture powder coat finish, but can also be sprayedwith bed liners and/or be adapted so as not to damage existing bedliners. The panels 110 can be provided separately or in groups to allowfor maximum customization. The panels 110 can include driver-side,passenger-side, and cab-side (front) panels. Each panel of the panels110 is custom fit designs engineered for every make and model and makesfor the perfect addition for over-landing builds. The panels 110 canalso be configured to provide clearance for factory tie downs and accessto bedside outlets and lighting. The panels 110 allow for keeping gearorganized, easily accessible, and secure while maximizing bed space. Thepanels 110 can be complemented with other modular lightweightload-carrying panels, pouch attachment ladder systems, aftermarketclamps and fasteners 114, and many other gear strapping systems 113 thathold cargo 112 in place on the roughest roads. The fasteners 114 cancomprise clamps, ties, cables, screws, nuts, bolts, pins, rivets,staples, washers, grommets, latches (including pawls), ratchets, clasps,flanges, adhesives, welds, or any combination thereof may be used tofacilitate fastening.

The Putco truck bed Molle panels have an easy, no-drill installationthat uses the existing OEM mounting points in the existing bed 102. Thepanels provide clearance for factory tie downs and access to bedsideoutlets and lighting, so that the driver is not giving up anyfunctionality. To install and use the panels 110, the installation,mounting, and use steps in FIGS. 2A-2D can be followed. For example,installation can be accomplished by the driver in less than an hour.

In some embodiments, to mount 201 the brackets 111 to the truck bed 102,the installer starts by loosely assemble the brackets 111 by combining abolt 111A, tabbed washer 111B, and nut plate 111C. The bolt 111A can beput through the bracket 111 fist, then the tabbed washer 111B, andfinally the nut plate 111C, as shown in FIGS. 2E-F. The assembledbracket 111 can then carefully be placed at an angle and inserted intoexisting OEM mount points (e.g. an oval hole 11D) in the bed 102,provided any plastic covers that come with the vehicle have already beenremoved, as shown in FIGS. 2E-2F. Once the nut plate 111C is placedperpendicularly within the existing OEM mount point, the installer canuse their hands to hold the bracket 111 in place, while using theappropriate screwdriver (such as a hex key) to securely tighten thebrackets 111. Usually, where more than one bracket 111 is beingemployed, the installer should refrain from completely tightening all ofthe brackets 111 in place until the process of tightening has beenstarted for all brackets 111. Second, to attach 202 the panels 110 tothe brackets 111, the panels 110 can simply be screwed on such that thepanels 110 are in a properly mounted position. Third, the installer cansecure 203 tools, gear, or other objects and equipment can withfasteners 114.

Specific examples 114A-D of said fasteners 114 are shown by way of FIGS.3A-3D. More particularly, these particular fasteners are made fromUV-resistant rubber and are thus very versatile. All include a baseportion 301, but differ in terms of how they achieve securement. Choiceof the preferred fastener 114A-114D depends on the application of same.

The embodiment 114A of FIG. 3A, for example, utilizes two flexible arms302 having teeth 302 to facilitate securement. This embodiment 114A canhold objects from 2.5″ to 9.5″ in diameter. Each clamp 114A supports asafe working load of at least fifty pounds (50 lbs). This fastener 114Acan mounts with three #10 bolts or screws and the mounting area of thisfastener 114A is 6″×⅞″.

In the embodiment 114B of FIG. 3B, several notches 304 are placeduniformly throughout the fastener 114B such that the installer canselect a varied width to tightly encompass any cargo 112. Thisembodiment 114B can hold objects from ½″ to 4.5″ in diameter. Each clamp114B supports a safe working load of fifty pounds (50 lbs). The breakstrength of this fastener 114B Break strength is one hundred twentypounds (120 lbs). The fastener 114B mounts easily with two ¼″ bolts or#14 wood or sheet metal screws, plus washers.

In FIG. 3C, additional washer plates 307 with central holes 306 can beused in connection with a large rectangular aperture 305 to facilitatesecurement. This embodiment 114C can hold objects from 1″ to 2.25″ indiameter. Each clamp 114C supports a safe working load of at leasttwenty five pounds (25 lbs). This fastener 114C can mounts with one #10bolt or screws and the mounting area of this fastener 114C is 2¾″×⅞″.

In FIG. 3D, a locking tab 308 is included to facilitate securement tothe notches 304. This embodiment 114D can hold objects from ½″ to ⅞″ indiameter. Each clamp 114D supports a safe working load of at leasttwenty thirteen pounds (13 lbs). This fastener 114D can mounts with one#6 flathead screw and the mounting area of this fastener 114D is1⅜″×1⅛″.

Detailed aspects of the panels 110 and brackets 111 can be seenthroughout the rest of the figures, with each numeric portion of thealphanumeric string denoting a distinct make and model of the vehicle.

In greater particularity, FIGS. 4A-4G show modular, lightweightload-carrying panels that include a panel flange 401, holes 402 in thepanel flange 401, elongated slots 403 in a main body portion of thepanel 110, a PALS grid 404, a recessed surface 405 that connects thepanel flange 401 and the main body portion of the panel 110, and holes406 in the main body portion of the panel 110, through which bolts andscrews can be inserted. In such an embodiment, the bottom edge of thedriver-side panel 400C and passenger-side panel 400B comprises a splinededge 407 that tracks the wheel well 109A of a Jeep Gladiator. At a rearend of the said panels 400B, 400C, a cutout with a substantiallyorthogonal angle 409 exists to give some clearance for tow hooks and/ora power outlet toward the rear of the bed 102. The front panel 400A isshown as symmetrical about the line of symmetry 408.

FIG. 4G, in particular, shows a first front bracket 410A, a second frontbracket 410B, first bracket flange 411, a protruding surface 412separating a main body portion of the bracket 111 from the first andsecond bracket flanges 411, 413, the second bracket flange 413, andbracket hole(s) 414, through which bolts and screws can be inserted.

Regarding a method of installation for the panels 400A, 400B, 400C ofthis particular embodiment, exemplary and enumerated installationinstructions follow:

-   1. unscrew and remove all in-bed rails (Gladiator rails are attached    with T30 Torx-head bolts);-   2. unscrew and remove all tie-down hooks using a T40 Torx driver,    place the second front brackets 410B behind the tie-down hooks, then    fasten to the bed 102 re-using factory hardware;-   3. loosely assemble a jam nut onto each of the rubber feet then    screw the feet into the nutserts located on the bottom flange of the    panels 400B, 400C (rubber feet are not always used);-   4. place the panels 400A, 400B, 400C on the backside of the in-bed    rails, then fasten to the bed 102 re-using the factory hardware    (note: if the Gladiator did not come equipped with in-bed rails, the    panels 400A, 400B, 400C can be bolted to the bed rail mounting holes    with extra M6 bolts;-   5. fasten the panels 400A, 400B, 400C to the corresponding brackets    410A, 410B using the M6 bolts and a T30 Torx driver;-   6. adjust rubber feet on the panels 400B, 400C down until they are    snug against the floor of the bed 102 then secure the rubber feet in    place by tightening the jam nuts against the nutserts using a 10 mm    wrench; and-   7. once all the panels 400A, 400B, 400C are installed in the    vehicle, ensure all fasteners are tightened until snug, but do not    overtighten.

FIGS. 5A-5G show modular, lightweight load-carrying panels that includea panel flange 501, holes 502 in the panel flange 501, elongated slots503 in a main body portion of the panel 110, a PALS grid 504, a recessedsurface 505 that connects the panel flange 501 and the main body portionof the panel 110, and holes 506 in the main body portion of the panel110, through which bolts and screws can be inserted. In such anembodiment, the bottom edge of the driver-side panel 500B andpassenger-side panel 500C comprises a splined edge 507 that tracks thewheel well 109A of a Toyota Tacoma. The front panel 500A includes a pairof rectangular panel cutouts 509 that appear as notches along a top edgeof the front panel 500A. The front panel 500A is shown as symmetricalabout the line of symmetry 508.

FIG. 5G, in particular, shows side bracket(s) 510A, front bracket(s)510B, a bracket flange 511, a protruding surface 512 separating a mainbody portion of the bracket 111 from the bracket flange 511, and brackethole(s) 513, through which bolts and screws can be inserted.

Regarding a method of installation for the panels 500A, 500B, 500C ofthis particular embodiment, exemplary and enumerated installationinstructions follow:

-   1. unscrew and remove both in-bed rails using a T30 Torx driver;-   2. using a T40 Torx driver, unscrew and remove the two tie-down    hooks located towards the front of the bed 102, then place the side    brackets 510A behind the tie-down hooks, then fasten to the bed 102    re-using factory hardware;-   3. loosely assemble a well nut and Philip's-head screw onto each of    the three front brackets 510B, then insert the well nuts down into    each of the three drain holes located towards the front of the bed    floor, and then tighten the screw until the well nut is snug in the    hole (but do not overtighten);-   4. remove and set aside the two T30 Torx-head fasteners from the    passenger-side bed cubby, (the passenger-side panel 500C will mount    to this location re-using these fasteners);-   5. place the side panels 500B, 500C on the backside of the in-bed    rails, then fasten to the bed 102 re-using the factory hardware;-   6. unscrew and remove the three required T30 Torx-head fasteners    from the upper part of the bed front, then set the front panel 500A    in place, and attach to the bed re-using these three fasteners;-   7. fasten the panels 500A, 500B, 500C to the corresponding brackets    510A, 510B using the M6 bolts and a T30 Torx driver; and-   8. once all the panels 500A, 500B, 500C are installed in the    vehicle, ensure all fasteners are tightened until snug, but do not    overtighten.

FIGS. 6A-6G show modular, lightweight load-carrying panels that includea holes 602 in a main body portion of the panel 110, elongated slots 603in a main body portion of the panel 110, a PALS grid 604, and a smallnotch 606 on the lower edge of a splined edge 607 on the driver-sidepanel 600B. In such an embodiment, the bottom edge of the driver-sidepanel 600B and passenger-side panel 600C comprise a splined edge 607that tracks the wheel well 109A of a Ford Ranger and substantiallyrectangular shaped cutouts 609 (with slight bulges appearing on theleft-hand and right-hand sides of said substantially rectangularcutouts) internally located within the main body portion of the panels600B, 600C. The front panel 600A is symmetrical about the line ofsymmetry 608.

FIG. 6G, in particular, shows front bracket(s) 610A, middle bracket(s)610B, rear bracket(s) 610C, bracket flange(s) 611, protruding surface(s)612 separating and/or otherwise extending a main body portion of thebracket 111 from the bracket flange 611, bracket hole(s) 614, throughwhich bolts and screws can be inserted, and bracket cutouts 615.

Regarding a method of installation for the panels 600A, 600B, 600C ofthis particular embodiment, exemplary and enumerated installationinstructions follow:

-   1. begin by unscrewing and removing all factory removable tie-down    hooks using a T40 Torx driver, then set these aside, as they will be    re-used (most Ford Ranger beds come equipped with four tiedowns in    total);-   2. the rear brackets 610C install behind the rear tie-downs (closest    to the tailgate 103), then place the rear bracket 610C in between    the bed 102 and the rear tie-down, then fasten in place re-using    factory hardware (if the Ford Ranger does not have a tie-down in    this location, fasten the rear bracket 610C using M8 Bolts and note    the rear brackets 610C can have different orientations depending on    whether they attach to the driver-side or the passenger-side panels    600B, 600C);-   3. install the middle brackets 610B and the front brackets 610A in    the same manner, either installing them behind factory tie-downs or    fastening using the M8 bolts, leave the front bracket 610A slightly    loose, as the brackets 610A, 610B, 610C may need to be adjusted    later on;-   4. loosely assemble a jam nut onto each of the rubber feet, then    screw the feet into the nutserts located on the bottom flange of the    front panel 600A;-   5. fasten all three panels 600A, 600B, 600C to the corresponding    brackets 610A, 610B, 610C using M6 bolts and a T30 Torx driver;-   6. the front part of each side panel 600B, 600C is fastened to the    bed 102 in the same manner as the brackets 610A, 610B, 610C, either    behind an existing tie-down, or using the M8 bolts;-   7. adjust the rubber feet on the front panel 600A down until they    are snug against the floor of the bed 102, then secure the rubber    feet in place by tightening the jam nuts against the nutserts using    a 10 mm wrench;-   8. for additional stiffness, locate the blank hole located towards    to top rear corner of each side panel 600B, 600C (this hole should    line up with a hole in the bed 102), insert the provided rubber well    nut into this hole, place the aluminum spacer between the well nut    and the side panel 600B, 600C, insert the 2⅜″ long bolt through the    side panel 600B, 600C and spacer, thread the bolt into the well nut,    tighten the bolt using a 3/16″ hex key until the well nut is snug in    the hole; and-   9. once all the panels 600A, 600B, 600C are installed in the    vehicle, ensure all fasteners are tightened until snug, but do not    overtighten.

FIGS. 7A-7I show modular, lightweight load-carrying panels that includea holes 702 in a main body portion of the panel 110, elongated slots 703in a main body portion of the panel 110, a PALS grid 704, anddriver-side and passenger-side edge cutouts 706 on the front panel 700A.This embodiment is unique in that it employs a duality of panels 700B,700C on the passenger-side (front and rear passenger-side panels,respectively) and another, mirrored, opposing duality of panels 700D,700E on the driver-side (front and rear driver-side panels,respectively). In such an embodiment, the bottom edge of the driver-sidepanels 700D, 700E and passenger-side panels 700B, 700C comprise asplined edge 607 that tracks the wheel well 109A of a Ford Super Duty.The panels 700B-E also include substantially rectangular shaped cutouts709 (with rounded corners) internally located within the main bodyportion of the panels 700B, 700C, 700D, 700E. The front panel 700A isshown as symmetrical about the line of symmetry 708.

FIG. 7I, in particular, shows front upper bracket(s) 710A, rearbracket(s) 710B, front lower bracket(s) 710C, side bracket(s) 710D,bracket flange(s) 711, protruding surface(s) 712 separating and/orotherwise extending a main body portion of the bracket 111 from thebracket flange 711, bracket cutout(s) 713, and bracket hole(s) 614,through which bolts and screws can be inserted.

Regarding a method of installation for the panels 700A, 700B, 700C ofthis particular embodiment, exemplary and enumerated installationinstructions follow:

-   1. unscrew and remove the four tie-down plates using a T30 Torx    driver, place the side mounting brackets 710D behind the tie down    plates, then fasten to the bed re-using factory hardware (note: for    the 6.5 ft Super Duty the front side bracket can be larger than the    one for the rear);-   2. unscrew and remove the two rear tie-down hooks using a T30 Torx    driver and place the rear brackets 710B behind the rear tie-down    hooks, then fasten to the bed re-using factory hardware;-   3. unscrew and remove the two front tie-down hooks using a T30 Torx    driver and place the front lower brackets 710C behind the front    tie-down hooks, then fasten to the bed re-using factory hardware;-   4. loosely assemble one 5/16 bolt and one well nut to each of the    two front upper brackets 710A, then insert the well nuts into the    front slots located toward the top of each bed side, tighten the    bolt using a 3/16 hex key until the well nut is snug in the slot    (the upper side brackets 710A can be slightly adjusted forward and    back within the slot 703 to get the desired rack position;-   5. loosely assemble a jam nut onto each of the rubber feet, then    screw the feet into the nutserts located on the bottom flange of the    front panel 700A;-   6. fasten the panels 700A, 700B, 700C to the corresponding brackets    710A, 710B, 710C, 710D using M6 bolts and a T30 Torx driver;-   7. adjust the rubber feet on the front panel 700A down until they    are snug against the floor of the bed 102, secure the rubber feet in    place by tightening the jam nuts against the nutserts using a 10 mm    wrench; and-   8. once all the panels 700A, 700B, 700C are installed in the    vehicle, ensure all fasteners are tightened until snug, but do not    overtighten.

FIGS. 8A-8G show modular, lightweight load-carrying panels that includea panel flange 801, holes 5802 in the panel flange 801, elongated slots803 in a main body portion of the panel 110, a PALS grid 804, and holes806 in the main body portion of the panel 110, through which bolts andscrews can be inserted. In such an embodiment, the bottom edge of thedriver-side panel 800C and passenger-side panel 800B comprises a splinededge 807 that tracks the wheel well 109A of a Nissan Frontier. Thepanels 800A, 800B, and 800C includes a set (2, 3, 3, respectively) oftrapezoidal shaped panel cutouts 809 that appear as notches along a topedge of the front panel 800A, driver-side panel 800C, and passenger-sidepanel 800B. The front panel 800A is shown as symmetrical about the lineof symmetry 808.

FIG. 8G, in particular, shows bracket(s) 810, a bracket flange 811,bracket cutout(s) 813, and bracket hole(s) 814, through which bolts andscrews can be inserted. Regarding a method of installation for thepanels 800A, 800B, 800C of this particular embodiment, exemplary andenumerated installation instructions follow:

-   1. unscrew and remove all in-bed rails (Nissan rails are attached    with T40 Torx-head bolts);-   2. unscrew and remove all tie-down hooks using a T40 Torx driver,    place the side brackets 810 behind the tie-down hooks, then fasten    to the bed re-using factory hardware (note: some Nissan Frontiers do    not include tie-down hooks, leaving the mounting holes blank. In    this case, use of pliers or a trim-removal tool to pull out the    plastic plugs where the tie-down hooks would be, then attach the    side brackets using the supplied M8 bolts and a T40 Torx driver);-   3. loosely assemble a jam nut onto each of the rubber feet, then    screw the feet into the nutserts located on the bottom flange of the    panels 800A, 800B, 800C (not all panels require rubber feet);-   4. place the panels 800A, 800B, 800C on the backside of the in-bed    rails, then fasten to the bed re-using the factory hardware;-   5. fasten the panels 800A, 800B, 800C to the brackets 810 using M6    bolts and a T30 Torx driver;-   6. adjust the rubber feet on the panels 800A, 800B, 800C down until    they are snug against the floor of the bed, then secure the rubber    feet in place by tightening the jam nuts against the nutserts using    a 10 mm wrench; and-   7. once all the panels 800A, 800B, 800C are installed in the    vehicle, ensure all fasteners are tightened until snug, but do not    overtighten.

FIGS. 9A-9G show modular, lightweight load-carrying panels that includea holes 902 in a main body portion of the panel 110, elongated slots 903in a main body portion of the panel 110, a PALS grid 904, and smallnotches 906 on the upper edge of the driver-side panel 900B andpassenger-side panel 900C. In such an embodiment, the bottom edge of thedriver-side panel 900B and passenger-side panel 900C comprise a splinededge 907 that tracks the wheel well 109A of a Nissan Titan and apartially circularly shaped cutout 909 (with slight bulges appearing onthe left-hand and right-hand sides of said substantially rectangularcutouts) internally located within the main body portion of thedriver-side panel 900B. The front panel 900A is symmetrical about theline of symmetry 908. This embodiment is further unique in that nomounting brackets 111 are required for installation.

Regarding a method of installation for the panels 900A, 900B, 900C ofthis particular embodiment, exemplary and enumerated installationinstructions follow:

-   1. unscrew and remove all in-bed rails (Nissan rails are attached    with T40 Torx-head bolts);-   2. loosely assemble a jam nut onto each of the rubber feet, then    screw the feet into the nutserts located on the bottom flange of the    panels 900A, 900B, 900C (not all panels will require rubber feet);-   3. place the panels 900A, 900B, 900C on the backside of the in-bed    rails, then fasten to the bed re-using the factory hardware;-   4. adjust the rubber feet on the panels 900A, 900B, 900C down until    they are snug against the floor of the bed 102, then secure the    rubber feet in place by tightening the jam nuts against the nutserts    using a 10 mm wrench; and-   5. once all the panels 900A, 900B, 900C are installed in the    vehicle, ensure all fasteners are tightened until snug, but do not    overtighten.

In greater particularity, FIGS. 10A-10G show modular, lightweightload-carrying panels that include holes 1002 in the panel flange 1001,through which bolts and screws can be inserted, elongated slots 1003 ina main body portion of the panel 110, a PALS grid 1004, andsubstantially rectangular cutouts 1006 (uniquely present in all panels1000A, 1000B, 100C of this embodiment, said rectangular cutouts 1006having rounded corners) in the main body portion of the panel 110. Insuch an embodiment, the bottom edge of the driver-side panel 1000C andpassenger-side panel 1000B comprises a splined edge 1007 that tracks thewheel well 109A of a Chevy Colorado. At a rear end of the said panels400B, 400C, a cutout with a substantially orthogonal angle 1009 existsto give some clearance for tow hooks toward the rear of the bed 102.This embodiment is further unique in that there is no axis of symmetryfor front panel 1000A. Front panel 1000A includes a splined lower edge1007 instead of only straight and/or orthogonally oriented loweredge(s).

FIG. 10G, in particular, shows a side brackets 1010A, front bracket1010B, bracket flange(s) 1011, and bracket hole(s) 1012, through whichbolts and screws can be inserted.

Regarding a method of installation for the panels 1000A, 1000B, 1000C ofthis particular embodiment, exemplary and enumerated installationinstructions follow:

-   1. begin by locating and removing the plastic oval covers from the    bed using a small flat-head screwdriver;-   2. loosely assemble a 5/16 bolt, tabbed washer, and nut plate to    each bracket 1010A, 1010B;-   3. grab one of the assembled brackets and insert the nut plate into    one of the required bed slots (the nut plate will have to be    inserted at an angle in order to fit), then orient the nut plate so    that it is perpendicular and centered behind the slot, then push the    tabbed washer against the bed side so that the tabs fit into the    slot (if aligned correctly, the tabs should prevent the nut plate    from spinning), then while keeping the tabbed washer in the slot    pull back on the bolt and begin to tighten, finally, repeat this    process for the rest of the required slots in the bed;-   4. attach the side panels 1000B, 1000C to the side brackets 1010A    using M6 bolts (the brackets 1010A may have to be adjusted to make    get the holes to line up);-   5. loosely assemble to front panel 1000A by loosely screwing a jam    nut onto each of the rubber feet, then loosely screwing the rubber    feet into the riv-nuts in the bottom bend of the front panel 1000A;-   6. fasten the front panel 1000A onto the front brackets 1010B using    M6 bolts;-   7. once the front panel 1000A is secured to the front brackets    1010A, adjust the rubber feet so that they sit tight to the bed 102    of the truck (this helps prevent vibration while driving), and once    the feet are in the correct position, tighten the jam nuts to secure    them in place; and-   8. once all the panels 1000A, 1000B, 1000C are installed in the    vehicle, ensure all fasteners are tightened until snug, but do not    overtighten.

FIGS. 11A-11G show modular, lightweight load-carrying panels thatinclude a holes 1102 in a main body portion of the panel 110, elongatedslots 1103 in a main body portion of the panel 110, a PALS grid 1104,and substantially rectangular cutouts 1106 (with rounded corners) on thedriver-side and passenger-side panels 1100B, 1100C. In such anembodiment, the bottom edge of the driver-side panel 1100B and thepassenger-side panel 1100C comprise a splined edge 1107 that tracks thewheel well 109A of a Dodge Ram LD. The front panel 1100A is shown assymmetrical about the line of symmetry 1108.

FIG. 11G, in particular, shows front upper bracket(s) 1110A, front lowermounting bracket(s) 1110B, side front mounting bracket(s) 1110C, firstdouble flange side mounting bracket(s) 1110D, side rear mountingbracket(s) 1110E, second double flange side mounting bracket(s) 1110F,bracket flange(s) 1111, protruding surface(s) 1112 separating and/orotherwise extending a main body portion of the bracket 111 from thebracket flange 1111, edge protrusions 1113, and bracket hole(s) 1114,through which bolts and screws can be inserted. In at least someembodiments, the side front bracket(s) 1110C and side rear mountingbracket(s) 1110E are identical, as are the first double flange sidemounting bracket(s) 1110D and the second double flange side mountingbracket(s) 1110F. Regarding a method of installation for the panels1100A, 1110B, 1110C of this particular embodiment, exemplary andenumerated installation instructions follow:

-   1. gather the single flange side mounting brackets 1110C, 1110E and    the double flange side mounting brackets 1110D, 1110F and then    loosely assemble two 5/16″ well nuts and two Philip's head screws    onto each of these brackets 1110C-F;-   2. the LD Ram has hex-shaped holes in the bedsides that will be used    to mount the side panels 1100B, 1100C, the double flange brackets    1110D, 1110F mount to the middle sets of holes, and the single    flange brackets 1110C, 1110E mount to the outer sets of holes;-   3. fasten the brackets to the bed by inserting the well nuts into    the hex-shaped holes, then tighten the Philip's head screws until    the well nuts are snug in the hex-shaped holes;-   4. gather the two front upper brackets 1110A, loosely assemble one    2⅜″ long Allen head bolt, in-bed washer, and nut plate onto each of    these brackets 1110A;-   5. install the front upper bracket 1110A assemblies by inserting the    nut plate into the slot located towards the top of each bed side    (the nut plate will have to be inserted at an angle in order to    fit), then orient the nut plate so that it is perpendicular and    centered behind the slot and push the tabbed washer against the bed    side so that the tabs fit into the slot (if aligned correctly, the    tabs should prevent the nut plate from spinning), and while keeping    the tabbed washer in the slot, pull back on the bolt and begin to    tighten until snug;-   6. locate the two remaining front lower brackets 1110B and loosely    assemble a ¾-inch well nut and 1.5-inch long Allen head bolt onto    each bracket 1110B, then install the lower bracket 1110B assemblies    by inserting the well nut into the slot located just next to the    forward tie-down hook before tightening the bolt using a 7/32 hex    key until the well nut is snug in the slot;-   7. prepare the front panel 1100A to be installed by threading a jam    nut onto each of the rubber feet, then loosely screw the rubber feet    into the riv-nuts located on the bottom flange of the front panel    1100A;-   8. fasten all panels 1100A, 1100B, 1100C to the corresponding    brackets 1110A-F using the provided Torx-head screws and a T30 Torx    driver;-   9. adjust the rubber feet on the front panel 1100A down until they    are snug against the floor of the bed 102, then secure the rubber    feet in place by tightening the jam nuts against the front plate    1100A using a 10 mm wrench; and-   10. once all the panels 1100A, 1100B, 1100C are installed in the    vehicle, ensure all fasteners are tightened until snug, but do not    overtighten.

FIGS. 12A-12G show modular, lightweight load-carrying panels thatinclude a holes 1202 in a main body portion of the panel 110, elongatedslots 1203 in a main body portion of the panel 110, a PALS grid 1204,and a duality (front and rear) of substantially rectangular cutouts 1206(with rounded corners) on the driver-side and passenger-side panels1200B, 1200C. In such an embodiment, the bottom edge of the driver-sidepanel 1200B and the passenger-side panel 1200C comprise a splined edge1207 that tracks the wheel well 109A of a Dodge Ram HD. The front panel1200A is shown as symmetrical about the line of symmetry 1208.

FIG. 12G, in particular, shows double flange side bracket(s) 1210A,single flange side bracket(s) 1210B, upper front bracket(s) 1210C, lowerfront bracket(s) 1210D, first bracket flange(s) 1211, second bracketflange(s) 1212, bracket cutout(s) 1213, and bracket hole(s) 1214,through which bolts and screws can be inserted.

Regarding a method of installation for the panels 1200A, 1200B, 1200C ofthis particular embodiment, exemplary and enumerated installationinstructions follow:

-   1. gather the single flange side mounting brackets 1210B and the    double flange side mounting brackets 1210A and then loosely assemble    two 5/16″ well nuts and two Philip's head screws onto each of these    brackets 1210A-B (the HD Dodge Ram is equipped with 4 removable    tie-down hooks that are fastened to the side of the bed 102, which    can be removed using a 5 mm hex key);-   2. install the single-flange brackets 1210B by placing them behind    the two rear tie-downs, then fasten to the bed re-using factory    hardware (closest to the tailgate 103);-   3. install the double flange brackets 1210A by sandwiching them    between the bedside and the tiedown hooks you just removed and    behind the front tie-down hooks (closest to the cab 101);-   4. gather the two front upper brackets 1210C, loosely assemble one    2⅜″ long Allen head bolt, in-bed washer, and nut plate onto each of    these brackets 1210C;-   5. install the front upper bracket 1210C assemblies by inserting the    nut plate into the slot located towards the top of each bed side    (the nut plate will have to be inserted at an angle in order to    fit), then orient the nut plate so that it is perpendicular and    centered behind the slot and push the tabbed washer against the bed    side so that the tabs fit into the slot (if aligned correctly, the    tabs should prevent the nut plate from spinning), and while keeping    the tabbed washer in the slot, pull back on the bolt and begin to    tighten until snug;-   6. optionally install extra flat brackets that can be mounted in the    slots located above the wheel wells 109A and are fastened in place    using the same method as the upper front brackets 1210C;-   7. locate the two remaining front lower brackets 1210D and loosely    assemble a ¾-inch well nut and 1.5-inch long Allen head bolt onto    each bracket 1210D, then install the lower bracket 1210D assemblies    by inserting the well nut into the slot located just next to the    forward tie-down hook before tightening the bolt using a 7/32 hex    key until the well nut is snug in the slot;-   8. prepare the front panel 1200A to be installed by threading a jam    nut onto each of the rubber feet, then loosely screw the rubber feet    into the riv-nuts located on the bottom flange of the front panel    1200A;-   9. fasten all panels 1200A, 1200B, 1200C to the corresponding    brackets 1210A-D using the provided Torx-head screws and a T30 Torx    driver;-   10. adjust the rubber feet on the front panel 1200A down until they    are snug against the floor of the bed 102, then secure the rubber    feet in place by tightening the jam nuts against the front plate    1200A using a 10 mm wrench; and-   11. once all the panels 1200A, 1200B, 1200C are installed in the    vehicle, ensure all fasteners are tightened until snug, but do not    overtighten.

Similar panels can be used to attach to the tailgate 103 of the vehicle,as exemplified by the modular, lightweight load-carrying panel systems1300, 1400 of FIGS. 13-14 . Panels can be installed on tailgates 103 ofpickup trucks, sport utility vehicles, compact sport utility vehicles,any other vehicle having a tailgate, vehicles having a substantiallyvertical rear surface, etc. For example, the system 1300 shown in FIG.13 includes a tailgate 103 that rotates about a hinge in a downwarddirection to open and in an upward direction to close, while the system1400 shown in FIG. 14 includes a tailgate 103 that rotates in an outwarddirection (partially laterally and away from the vehicle) to open and inan inward direction (partially laterally and toward the vehicle) toclose.

FIGS. 15A-C show a well nut 1500 (also known as river nuts) that can beused when installing one or more of the panels described herein. Thewell nut includes a flat upper surface 1502 perpendicularly to acylindrical body of the well nut 1500, with a central aperture 1504running therethrough. A nonconductive rubber coating 1506 insulates thenut from electricity, seals out moisture, and damps vibration. For thebody itself, brass, a copper alloy, or another similarly suitable rigidmaterial can be employed. Protrusions 1508 can be included on the hollowcylindrical body to increase the friction fit with any surfaces the wellnut 1500 contacts. The well nut 1500 generally includes female threads1510 which allow bolts and other types of fasteners to attach theretoafter a desired object to be fastened has been placed over the well nut1500. The thread direction of the female threads 1510 can be eitherright or lefthanded, and one such direction of the threading may bechosen depending on if it helps facilitate installation of same.

There are generally two ways in which a tailgate panel can be attachedto the tailgate 103.

The second method, shown in FIGS. 16A-B, involves inserting the bolts1700B through the backing plate 1600B and then spacer(s) 1700S. Thebolts are also inserted through the tailgate panel and threaded into thepre-existing holes 1600 in the tailgate 103. Washers 1700W are notrequired but can be beneficial if employed to ensure the bolts 1700 aretight. There can be three bolt 1700B and washer 1700W combinations thathold the backing plate 1600B. All the bolts 1700B should be snug, butnot overtightened. The washers 1700W will also aid in avoidingovertightening the bolts 1700B.

The second method, shown in FIGS. 17A-C, involves removing the accesspanel on the tailgate 103, which can in some embodiments be accomplishedusing a T20 Torx driver. The screw retainers 1700 can then be locatedand removed from the tailgate 103, such as through use of a flatheadscrewdriver. The well nut 1500 or a plurality of well nuts 1500 can beinserted into the holes 1600 where the screw retainers 1700 were. Thebolts 1700B can then be inserted through the tailgate panel and anyspacer(s) 1700S. Washers 1700W can be placed between the spacer 1700Sand the tailgate access panel. The bolts 1700B can then be threaded intothe well nuts 1500.

FIGS. 18-38 exemplify embodiments of the modular, lightweightload-carrying panel system 100 for the tailgate 103. The panels shownare a tailgate panel 1810 adapted for installation on a ChevyColorado/Canyon (FIG. 18 ); a tailgate panel 1910 adapted forinstallation on a Chevy Silverado/Sierra (K1) (FIG. 19 ); tailgatepanels 2010A, 2010B, 2010C adapted for installation on a ChevySilverado/Sierra HD-Multi-Pro (FIGS. 20A-20C); a tailgate panel 2110adapted for installation on a Chevy Silverado/Sierra HD (FIG. 21 );tailgate panels 2210A, 2210B, 2210C adapted for installation on a ChevySilverado/Sierra Multi-Pro; a tailgate panel 2310 adapted forinstallation on a Chevy Silverado/Sierra (FIG. 23 ); a tailgate panel2410 adapted for installation on a Ford Bronco (FIG. 24 ); tailgatepanels 2510A, 2510B adapted for installation on a Ford F150 with a worksurface (FIG. 25A); a tailgate panel 2610 adapted for installation on aFord F150 (FIG. 26 ); a tailgate panel 2710 adapted for installation ona Ford Maverick (FIG. 27 ); a tailgate panel 2810 adapted forinstallation on a Ford Ranger (FIG. 28 ); a tailgate panel 2910 adaptedfor installation on a Ford Super Duty (FIG. 29 ); a tailgate panel 3010adapted for installation on a Jeep Gladiator (FIG. 30 ); a tailgatepanel 3110 adapted for installation on a Jeep Wrangler JL (FIG. 31 ); atailgate panel 3210 adapted for installation on a Nissan Frontier (FIG.32 ); a tailgate panel 3310 adapted for installation on a Nissan Titan(FIG. 33 ); a tailgate panel 3410 adapted for installation on a DodgeRam 1500 (FIG. 34 ); a tailgate panel 3510 adapted for installation on aDodge Ram HD (FIG. 35 ); a tailgate panel 3610 adapted for installationon a Toyota Tacoma (FIG. 36 ); a tailgate panel 3710 adapted forinstallation on a Toyota Tundra (FIG. 37 ); and another tailgate panel3810 adapted for installation on a Toyota Tundra (FIG. 38 ).

It is to be appreciated from viewing the panels 1810-3810 that eachindividual panel has one or more of the features described withreference to the panels described with reference to FIGS. 4A-12F. Saidfeatures will be able to accomplish similar functions to those describedabove, but will custom engineered specific so as to facilitatesecurement of objects to the tailgate 103 instead of the sidewalls of atruck bed.

From the foregoing, it can be seen that the present inventionaccomplishes at least all of the stated objectives.

LIST OF REFERENCE CHARACTERS

The following table of reference characters and descriptors are notexhaustive, nor limiting, and include reasonable equivalents. Ifpossible, elements identified by a reference character below and/orthose elements which are near ubiquitous within the art can replace orsupplement any element identified by another reference character.

TABLE 1 List of Reference Characters 100 modular lightweight loadcarrying equipment system for automobiles 101 cab 102 bed 103 tailgate104 cable 105 sidewall 106 tail light 107 windows (e.g., windshield,passenger windows, back glass) 108 mirror(s) 109A wheel well 109B wheel(e.g., all-terrain tires) 110 panel 111 brackets for panels (includingthe bracket main body) 111B bolt 111NP nut plate 111W washer 112 cargo113 straps 114 clamps 201 mounting brackets step 202 attaching panelsstep 203 securing cargo step 301 clamp base 302 arm 303 teeth 304notches 305 rectangular aperture 306 hole 307 washer plate 308 lockingtab 400A front panel 400B passenger-side panel 400C driver-side panel401 panel flange 402 flange hole 403 elongated slot 404 PALS-like grid405 recessed surface 406 panel hole 407 splined edge 408 line ofsymmetry 409 substantially orthogonal angle 410A first front bracket410B second front bracket 411 first bracket flange 412 protrudingsurface 413 second bracket flange 414 bracket hole 500A front panel 500Bdriver-side panel 500C passenger-side panel 501 panel flange 502 flangehole 503 elongated slot 504 PALS-like grid 506 panel hole 507 splinededge 508 line of symmetry 509 panel cutout 510A side bracket 510B frontbracket 511 bracket flange 512 protruding surface 513 bracket holes 600Afront panel 600B driver-side panel 600C passenger-side panel 602 panelhole 603 elongated slot 604 PALS-like grid 606 edge cutout 607 splinededge 608 line of symmetry 609 panel cutout 610A front bracket 610Bmiddle bracket 610C rear bracket 611 bracket flange 612 protrudingsurface 614 bracket holes 615 bracket cutout 700A front panel 700B firstpassenger-side panel 700C second passenger-side panel 700D firstdriver-side panel 700E second driver-side panel 702 panel hole 703elongated slot 704 PALS-like grid 706 edge cutout 707 splined edge 708line of symmetry 709 panel cutout 710A front upper bracket 710B rearbracket 710C front lower bracket 710D side bracket 711 bracket flange712 protruding surface 713 bracket cutout 714 bracket holes 800A frontpanel 800B passenger-side panel 800C driver-side panel 801 panel flange802 flange hole 803 elongated slot 804 PALS-like grid 806 panel hole 807splined edge 808 line of symmetry 809 edge cutout(s) 810 bracket 811bracket flange 813 bracket cutout 814 bracket holes 900A front panel900B driver-side panel 900C passenger-side panel 902 panel hole 903elongated slot 904 PALS-like grid 906 edge cutout 907 splined edge 908line of symmetry 909 panel cutout 1000A front panel 1000B driver-sidepanel 1000C passenger-side panel 1002 panel hole 1003 elongated slot1004 PALS-like grid 1006 panel cutout 1007 splined edge 1009 orthogonalangle 1010A side bracket 1010B front bracket 1011 bracket flange 1012bracket holes 1100A front panel 1100B driver-side panel 1100Cpassenger-side panel 1102 panel hole 1103 elongated slot 1104 PALS-likegrid 1106 panel cutout (substantially rectangular with rounded corners)1107 splined edge 1108 line of symmetry 1110A front upper bracket 1110Bfront lower bracket 1110C side mounting bracket (rear) 1110D firstdouble flange side mounting bracket 1110E side mounting bracket (front)1110F second double flange side mounting bracket 1111 bracket flange1112 protruding surface 1113 edge protrusion 1114 bracket holes 1200Afront panel 1200B driver-side panel 1200C passenger-side panel 1202panel hole 1203 elongated slot 1204 PALS-like grid 1206 panel cutout(substantially rectangular with rounded comers) 1207 splined edge 1208line of symmetry 1209 orthogonal angle 1210A double flange bracket 1210Bsingle flange bracket 1210C front upper bracket 1210D front lowerbracket 1211 first bracket flange 1212 second bracket flange 1213bracket cutout (substantially triangular with rounded corners) 1214bracket holes 1300 modular, lightweight load-carrying panel systemincluding tailgate panel 1400 modular, lightweight load-carrying panelsystem including tailgate panel 1500 well nut 1502 upper surface 1504central aperture 1506 nonconductive rubber coating of body 1508protrusion 1510 female threads 1600 hole in tailgate (e.g., an existingmounting point of vehicle) 1600B backing plate 1700 screw retainer 1700Bbolt 1700S spacer 1700W washer 1810 tailgate panel for ChevyColorado/Canyon 1910 tailgate panel for Chevy Silverado/Sierra (K1)2010A first tailgate panel for Chevy Silverado/Sierra HD-Multi-Pro 2010Bsecond tailgate panel for Chevy Silverado/Sierra HD-Multi-Pro 2010Cthird tailgate panel for Chevy Silverado/Sierra HD-Multi-Pro 2110tailgate panel for Chevy Silverado/Sierra HD 2210 tailgate panel forChevy Silverado/Sierra-Multi-Pro 2310 tailgate panel for ChevySilverado/Sierra 2410 tailgate panel for Ford Bronco 2510A firsttailgate panel for Ford F150 with a work surface 2510B second tailgatepanel for Ford F150 with a work surface 2610 tailgate panel for FordF150 2710 tailgate panel for Ford Maverick 2810 tailgate panel for FordRanger 2910 tailgate panel for Ford Super Duty 3010 tailgate panel forJeep Gladiator 3110 tailgate panel for Jeep Wrangler JL 3210 tailgatepanel for Nissan Frontier 3310 tailgate panel for Nissan Titan 3410tailgate panel for Dodge Ram 1500 3510 tailgate panel for Dodge Ram HD3610 tailgate panel for Toyota Tacoma 3710 tailgate panel for ToyotaTundra 3810 tailgate panel for Toyota Tundra

Glossary

Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used abovehave the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill inthe art to which embodiments of the present invention pertain.

The terms “a,” “an,” and “the” include both singular and pluralreferents.

The term “or” is synonymous with “and/or” and means any one member orcombination of members of a particular list.

The terms “invention” or “present invention” are not intended to referto any single embodiment of the particular invention but encompass allpossible embodiments as described in the specification and the claims.

The term “about” as used herein refer to slight variations in numericalquantities with respect to any quantifiable variable. Inadvertent errorcan occur, for example, through use of typical measuring techniques orequipment or from differences in the manufacture, source, or purity ofcomponents.

The term “substantially” refers to a great or significant extent.“Substantially” can thus refer to a plurality, majority, and/or asupermajority of said quantifiable variable, given proper context.

The term “generally” encompasses both “about” and “substantially.”

The term “configured” describes structure capable of performing a taskor adopting a particular configuration. The term “configured” can beused interchangeably with other similar phrases, such as constructed,arranged, adapted, manufactured, and the like.

Terms characterizing sequential order, a position, and/or an orientationare not limiting and are only referenced according to the viewspresented.

The pouch attachment ladder system (“PALS”) usually refers to a grid ofwebbing invented and patented by United States Army and is now found ona variety of tactical equipment. As used herein, PALS is used to referto any object having a grid of holes arranged in rows, said grid havingat least two rows of holes, unless context indicates otherwise.

The “scope” of the present invention is defined by the appended claims,along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims areentitled. The scope of the invention is further qualified as includingany possible modification to any of the aspects and/or embodimentsdisclosed herein which would result in other embodiments, combinations,subcombinations, or the like that would be obvious to those skilled inthe art.

What is claimed is:
 1. An interlocking attaching system for removablysecuring cargo to a tailgate of a vehicle, said system comprising: awell nut or a spacer that contacts an existing mounting point on thevehicle; a panel comprising a PALS grid; a screw or a bolt for fasteningpanel to an internal side of the tailgate, said screw or bolt beingtightenable with the well nut or the spacer; cargo; and fasteners forinterlocking said cargo to the PALS grid of said panels.
 2. Theinterlocking attaching system of claim 1 wherein said fasteners compriseat least one bracket.
 3. The interlocking attaching system of claim 1wherein said fasteners comprise nylon ties, ropes, straps, or clamps. 4.The interlocking attaching system of claim 1 wherein the tailgate (i)rotates outwardly about a hinge away from the vehicle to open and (ii)rotates inwardly about the hinge toward the vehicle to close.
 5. Theinterlocking attaching system of claim 4 wherein the vehicle is acompact sport utility vehicle (SUV).
 6. The interlocking attachingsystem of claim 1 wherein the tailgate (i) rotates downwardly about ahinge away from the vehicle to open and (ii) rotates upwardly about thehinge toward the vehicle to close.
 7. The interlocking attaching systemof claim 6 wherein the vehicle is a pickup truck and the tailgate formspart of the truck bed.
 8. The interlocking attaching system of claim 1wherein the panels include one or more cutouts in the panel that (1)avoid existing protrusions or obstructions in the tailgate of the truckbed or (2) permit access to electrical outlets or a wiring harness ofthe pickup truck.
 9. The interlocking attaching system of claim 1wherein the panels are coated with spray-on bed liners.
 10. Theinterlocking attaching system of claim 1 wherein the panels compriseheavy gauge 1/10 inch thick 6000 series aluminum.
 11. The interlockingattaching system of claim 1 wherein the panels are rated to carry atotal weight of said cargo weighting at least two hundred pounds. 12.The interlocking attaching system of claim 1 wherein the panels areadapted to withstand temperatures between negative forty degrees and onehundred twenty degrees Fahrenheit.
 13. The interlocking attaching systemof claim 1 wherein the cargo is selected from the group consisting ofweaponry, a spare battery, a tank for holding liquids, machinery, tools,equipment for construction or landscaping, and medical gear.
 14. Theinterlocking attaching system of claim 1 wherein the at least one strapand the at least one clamp are made from a flexible, UV-resistantrubber.
 15. A method of using the interlocking attaching system of claim1 comprising: mounting the well nut to the existing mount point on thetailgate; attaching the panel to said well nut; and fastening cargo withthe fasteners to said panels.
 16. The method of claim 15 wherein themethod is free from drilling or cutting.
 17. The method of claim 15further comprising removing an access panel and/or a screw retainer toaccess said existing mount points.
 18. A method of using theinterlocking attaching system of claim 1 comprising: mounting the bolt,the spacer, and a backing plate to the existing mount point, saidexisting mount point being located on the tailgate; attaching the panelto said backing plate; and fastening cargo with the fasteners to saidpanels.
 19. The method of claim 18 further comprising locating the atleast one strap and the at least one clamp at desirable locations on thePALS grid.
 20. The method of claim 18 further comprising placing awasher on the bolt before tightening the bolt to the existing mountpoint.